Fire outside elementary school forces evacuation, early dismissal

BRICK -- A small electrical fire outside an elementary school in Brick on Thursday forced the evacuation and early dismissal of students, though no injuries were reported, officials said.

The fire broke out in a conduit that runs from an electrical box to solar panels at Emma Havens Young Elementary School, Mayor John Ducey said. The fire, reported at 9:10 a.m., cut power to the school, according to police.

Though the fire was quickly extinguished, students were dismissed at 11 a.m., police said.

Emma Havens Young students were moved to the adjacent Drum Point School.

Students who are unable to be picked up at school or at their bus stops will be taken to the Police Athletic League across the street until they can be signed out.

As of 10:50 a.m. 883 homes and businesses in Brick are without power. Their electricity should be restored by noon, according to Jersey Central Power & Light's outage tracker.

Small electrical fire OUTSIDE of Emma Havens school. Fire is OUT. All are SAFE. Great job kids and staff on your fire drill skills. 9-14-17